Council FAQs

What is The Child Nutrition Council of Manitoba?

The Child Nutrition Council of Manitoba (“the Council”) is a charitable organization dedicated to helping school children learn, grow, and succeed by supporting breakfast, snack, and lunch programs. We’re unique because we’re based in Manitoba – and all of the funds we raise stay in this province, reaching children and teens in all regions of Manitoba.

What do you do?

We provide support and funding to schools for nutrition programs. We have registered dietitians on staff who work to support nutrition programs across Manitoba in a variety of ways including delivering workshops, newsletters, new resources, and site visits.

Why are nutrition programs so important?

Studies show that children who are well-nourished have improved memory, problem-solving skills, and creative abilities, yet, 31% of elementary students and 62% of secondary school students don’t eat breakfast daily. In addition, 59% of Canadian children consume less than the recommended daily servings of fruits and vegetables.

Manitoba schools and communities need our help to ensure our youth receive the best chance for success.

Every nutrition program is also a safe space where kids can find encouragement, get to know friendly adults, learn about nutrition, gain food skills and volunteer credits, and come together with other children of various ages and backgrounds.

Who benefits from these programs?

School-age students from all over Manitoba benefit from our nutrition programs.

How many schools are involved?

The Council supports over 230 school and community-based breakfast, snack, and lunch programs, serving 22,000 children and teens each year.

How does a school take part?

School administrators can apply for funding each spring. You can find information about the application process here.

Who provides your funding?

Our funding comes from The Province of Manitoba, The Winnipeg Foundation through the Moffat Family Fund, and corporate/individual donors.

Why don’t children just eat at home?

Children and young people are arriving at school without having had enough to eat for many reasons. Unfortunately, they can’t always access adequate nutrition at home. Some children have very long bus rides and are scrambling early to be ready. Parents are often working shift hours and are not able to be with their children in the morning. To give our Manitoba school children the best chance at success, we, as a community, need to step in and support them.

Are these programs only for underprivileged children?

No, these programs are for any child who requires healthy food to make the best of their time at school.

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The Child Nutrition Council of Manitoba is a charitable organization dedicated to helping school children learn, grow and succeed by supporting breakfast, snack and lunch programs. We’re unique because we’re based in Manitoba – and all of the funds we raise stay in this province to help children in all regions of Manitoba.